Georgian weightlifter Irakli Turmanidze (+105 kg) has become the Champion of Europe. International Weightlifting Federation recognized him as the winner yesterday.

Minister of Sports Tariel Khechikashvili, President of Georgia's Weightlifting Federation Kakhi Kakhiashvili and main coach of the national team Giorgi Asanidze held a meeting with the winner at the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs.

“I would like to congratulate Georgia on our weightlifter’s success… Our government will always support this sport,” Tariel Khechikashvili, Sports Minister said.

According to Kakhishvili, Turmanidze won a silver medal but as later discovered, the champion who was from Ukraine, had used prohibited substances. Therefore, he was deprived of the gold medal.

“This is a great victory. I believe Irakli will be more successful in the future,” the Federation President remarked.